Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Stepping outside...

I'm sitting at my desk at home, my kids are still at school, the bags are packed and the boarding passes are in my bag. My heart is already racing, and I haven't even driven out of the driveway! At some point last summer or fall, I can't remember which, I felt extreme excitement over the idea of racing the Oceanside 70.3.  I was ( am ) stale from racing many of the same events year after year.  This one caught my eye and  I registered. Just like that.  Done.  My 2013 started to take shape and it is clearing going to be one full of adventure.  I am stepping way way outside my comfort zone. Oceanside 70.3 on Saturday, a quick turnaround to a training camp in TX, and the back to the Lonestar state for the Ironman in May. (did you hear my voice shaking?? ) 

If you read this blog, you know I'm a New England girl.  I love all 4 seasons, including winter. Maine is never boring that way.  And this winter, we were blessed with lots of great fat white cold snow to play in and ski on!  What's the point? I am about to swim in the ocean, Bike ( OUTSIDE!)  56 miles, and top it off with a little half marathon. ( That part I have covered.)  OHMYGOSH!!!!  I'm staring out the window at white! It's only 40 degrees ( but really, that's kind of warm for us these days... ) and I have only been outside on my bike TWO Times!!!!

Yup... I've only been outside on my bike, two times. Yet,  I have pedaled for hours and hours. I've worked damn hard and I've put in some good training... but it feels very very odd to be heading to a race where it's warm and sunny when there's snow on the ground and ice on the lakes where I am. 

Time for me to put on the blinders and fly outta here. Once we land in the warm sunny land of Southern California (where, interestingly, I lived as a 22 year old fresh out of college. Triathlon wasn't even a sport I talked about yet... if it had been, I might not have returned to Maine! So good thing they kept it a secret from me while I was there.), it will be easy for me to fall into my zone. 

I'm excited to race.I really am. I think I'm ready to go push my limits and have a great day.  But I'd be lying if I didn't admit total nerves right now. However, I  have faith in my experience and my strength and so my plan is to just get out there and do what I do! 
  

Two more hours and we're off!!!  


scenes from Oceanside, CA 70.3 
The pier

swim start 

overlooking the run route 

6 comments:

Jennifer Harrison said...

GOOD luck, Ange! You'll do great - ENJOY IT!

Ann Brennan said...

You are going to rock this. I cannot wait to hear all about it.

Michelle Simmons said...

Cheering for you, Ange!! Have fun and enjoy riding your bike outside!! :)

GoBigGreen said...

All good Ange, get your game face on and go! I know from last year riding inside on the trainer was way harder than hitting the road in ST Croix, i think you will feel the same way. You are ready!

JB said...

I'm thinking we won't get much sun or warmth in SoCal this weekend :( Pack some warm clothes!

crittoria said...

What an amazing adventure you are heading into! I can't wait to read more stories!! Good luck & most of all, have fun.